The Diocesan Centre for Biblical Apostolate had conducted “Bible Course” for the lay faithful in St. Joseph Church at Usgao under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Mariano D’Costa from June 2025 to March 2026. The Parish Priest of St. Joseph Church- Usgao, Rev. Fr. Benson Colaco along with Assistant Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Valfern Barbosa decided to introduce the Bible Course in their Parish with a vision to help their parishners to gain deep understanding of the Word of God. Around 145 parishners had enrolled for the course. The course concluded with a Diploma Day which was held on 15/03/2026 at 4:00 pm. The Chief Guest for the ceremony was Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Goa & Daman – Most Rev. Bishop Simiao Purificacao Fernandes.
The Ceremony commenced with all the participants welcoming Bishop Simiao and clicking a group photograph with him followed by the Holy Eucharist. Under the leadership of Most Rev. Bishop Simiao Fernandes, theparticipants took an oath to continue on this spiritual path and make a conscious effort to spread the Word of God to others. The Holy Eucharist concluded with the final blessing after which the Official Ceremony of handing over the Diploma to the qualified participants took place. Fr. Benson and Fr. Mariano took the opportunity and shared words of gratitude towards everyone who have contributed in making the Bible Course a fruitful and enriching experience.
Thereafter the Participants received their Diplomas and tokens by the hands of Most Rev. Bishop Simiao Fernandes. In a display of kind and heartfelt gesture, Fr. Mariano presented tokens of appreciation to Fr. Benson, Fr. Valfern and the entire Bible Course Coordinating Committee on behalf of the Diocesan Centre for Biblical Apostolate as a sign of love and appreciation. Fr. Mariano also received a momento from Fr. Benson and Fr. Valfern as a sign of gratitude to thank him for his dedication and diligent efforts in conducting the Bible Course Sessions. Fr. Benson also presented a token of love to Bishop Simiao on behalf of all his Parishners. The Ceremony ended with the recessional hymn and all the participants, nuns, priests and Bishop Simiao proceeded to the Church Hall to enjoy refreshments and spend some time together in fellowship. In conclusion, the Bible course and Diploma Day were organized successfully and well received.